By Gbenga Emiloju (DMPII)
The following are some simple ways to nurture and manage strategic relationships
1. Appreciation: Expression of gratitude makes strategic relationships improve and get better than when individuals in such relationships are taken for granted.
2. Value: Whatever you do not value cannot add value to you. Placing the right value on your strategic relationship increases its productivity ratios exponentially.
3. Investment: It is important to continuously sacrifice and make meaningful contributions for the growth and development your meaningful/productive relationships
4. Mutual Benefits: The rewards and benefits of strategic relationships should not be one-sided, but be mutually enjoyed. Make efforts to reciprocate the benefits enjoyed from your relationships
5. Evaluation: There is a need to periodically and regularly evaluate the progress and wellbeing of relationships with others for necessary actions or interventions.
6. Protection: Whatever that is valued should be well-protected. The same goes with strategic relationships, especially the secrets and classified information involved.
7. Keep It Simple: Let all efforts and approaches to maintain SR be simple, easy and moderate. Remember an adage, “Easy Does It.”
8. Genuine Interest: In your dealings with individuals in strategic relationships, make sure you are sincere, selfless and be 100% loyal to them.
9. Conflicts and Resolutions: Conflicts and resolutions are inevitable in every relationship. Give rooms for resolution whenever there is conflict in your strategic relationships.
10. Respect Boundaries: Never disrespect or disregard the boundaries set by others in your relationships. Be wise enough to respect boundaries set by strategic relationships.
*NOTE:*
No meaningful and productive relationship dies a natural death. The reasons behind the untimely death of many strategic relationships are traceable to lack of quality and effective management of such relationships.
*In Volume 5, I will discuss 10 Common Mistakes to avoid in Strategic Relationships.*
I Wish You A Pleasant Weekend!
